DU rolls out aid for 583 female students

Dhaka University (DU) has introduced its first-ever emergency financial aid programme, providing Tk three thousand monthly to 583 female students across five dormitories.

This initiative marks a significant step towards addressing financial hardships faced by female students at the prestigious institution.

Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan described the programme as a 'temporary and emergency measure' during Tuesday's symbolic handover ceremony.

Ten students from different dormitories received their first instalment at the Vice-Chancellor's conference room, with the funds being transferred directly to students' bank accounts.

The initiative comes as female students comprise 53 percent of the university's population, yet only five residential halls accommodate them.

"Many students come from remote areas, with no relatives in Dhaka. They often struggle financially at the beginning, even before earning from tuition jobs," DU VC explained, highlighting the pressing need for such support.

Despite facing a substantial budget deficit of TK 51 crore, the university has committed to this financial assistance programme.

VC expressed hopes to expand support to more students whilst calling upon the Alumni Association and society to contribute. Plans are underway for a Chinese-funded female dormitory and a major project awaiting ECNEC approval, which includes four additional female dormitories and five male dormitories to tackle the ongoing housing crisis.